Dacusville, SC – The Dacusville and surrounding Upstate South Carolina community is grieving the tragic and untimely loss of Payce Chappells, a beloved rising 7th grader at Dacusville Middle School, who passed away on July 1, 2025, following a sudden and severe medical emergency.
Known for her joyful spirit, competitive heart, and kindness that touched everyone she met, Payce’s passing has left friends, classmates, teachers, teammates, and families heartbroken.
Obituary for Payce Chappells
Payce Chappells was a student, athlete, teammate, and true light in the halls of Dacusville Middle School. Her presence brought energy and warmth to everyone around her whether in the classroom, walking the halls, or playing on the volleyball court as part of the 864 Elite Volleyball Club.
On the night before her sudden illness, Payce helped lead her team to a first-place victory, playing her final game on Court 1 with her signature smile and determination. Her last moments on the court were filled with joy, surrounded by teammates who adored her and coaches who admired her heart and work ethic.
As news of her critical condition spread, prayers and support poured in from across the school, volleyball community, and beyond. But despite the love and hope surrounding her, Payce passed away the next day, leaving an entire community mourning the loss of a young life full of promise.
“That night, she played like a champion. Today, she rests in the arms of the true Champion,” her club shared. “She now takes her place on the ultimate Court #1, where love never ends and victory is eternal.”
Dacusville Middle School and Community Response
In the days following the loss, Dacusville Middle School issued a message to its students and families, reminding everyone that grief is personal and complex — and that no one has to carry it alone:
“Loss like this can be overwhelming. It’s okay to feel sad, confused, angry, or numb. There’s no ‘right’ way to grieve, but you don’t have to go through it alone. Talk to someone you trust — a friend, coach, teacher, or counselor. Your feelings are valid, and your mental health matters.”
To support the healing process, the school has organized a drop-in gathering on Thursday, July 3 at 4:00 PM in the Dacusville Middle School Media Center, where students, families, staff, and community members are invited to come together to honor Payce’s life and lean on one another.
Honoring Payce Chappells’ Legacy
Payce Chappells was more than an athlete, she was a daughter, a friend, a teammate, and a role model. Her laughter could fill a room. Her heart lifted others. Her courage and kindness made others feel seen. Though her time on this earth was short, her impact will be felt for generations.
While no formal fundraiser has been announced at this time, the community is encouraged to:
- Attend the July 3 memorial gathering
- Support one another through conversation and care
- Share photos and memories of Payce
- Continue praying for the Chappell family during this unimaginable loss
- Promote mental health awareness and support within schools and youth programs
In the words of many who knew her, Payce Chappells will always be remembered as an Most Valuable Presence. She lived with grace, played with heart, and left the world better than she found it.
She may be gone from our sight, but she will forever remain in our hearts.
